All about Parque Científico Tecnológico in Yucatan (2025)

About halfway between Mérida and Progreso on the Yucatán Peninsula lies the Parque Científico Tecnológico de Yucatán (Yucatán Science and Technology Park), a major research and innovation hub.

The park was established to promote scientific research and the development of technologies in areas such as fossil and renewable energy, sustainability, and various advanced technologies.

It is home to leading academic institutions, including the Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), as well as research centers, renewable energy companies, and specialized laboratories.

The main reason you might want to stop by, however, is the museum dedicated to the impact of the meteorite that struck the sea not far from here.

The Museum

Since 2014, a museum on the second and third floors of the facility's library has been open to the public, free of charge. It provides information about an event that reshaped Earth's history 66 million years ago.

This refers to the impact of the meteorite that struck the sea just a few kilometers from Chicxulub. At that time, 75% of all plant and animal species on Earth became extinct, including the dinosaurs.

The museum also explores the regional effects of the impact, such as the formation of the Ring of Cenotes on the Yucatán Peninsula. If you're visiting with kids, they can even take a picture with a life-sized model of a dinosaur.

Exhibition Halls

There are four exhibition halls in the museum:

1. The Universe and the Solar System

2. Chicxulub, Impact Crater

3. Biodiversity, Evolution, Mass Extinction

4. Yucatan, Natural Environment

On the lower floor, in the room "The Universe and the Solar System," there is a replica of the Apollo 11 capsule, and you can learn about the constellations. Interactive displays explain the formation of stars and planets, and there’s even a model of a black hole to illustrate gravitational forces.

In the room "Chicxulub, Impact Crater," the impact of the meteorite that caused the mass extinction of the dinosaurs is explained. You can also see mammal fossils and dinosaur footprints, along with a detailed timeline of events that followed the impact, showing how life on Earth was forever changed.

Upstairs, the room "Biodiversity, Evolution, Mass Extinction" showcases life-size models of animals from different parts of the world, such as lions, monkeys, and penguins. There’s also an exhibit on prehistoric creatures, including a giant sloth skeleton, providing insight into past ecosystems and the species that once roamed the planet.

The fourth room, "Yucatán, Natural Environment," focuses on the formation of cenotes, as well as the flora and fauna of the region. You can see replicas of a cave and a cenote, alongside interactive panels explaining the role of underground rivers and the unique species that inhabit these ecosystems.

How to Get to Parque Científico?

Parque Científico is easy to reach by car. Take Highway 261 towards Progreso, and about halfway there, near Tamanché, take the exit toward Sierra Papacal/Kikteil.

From there, turn right onto Carr. Mérida - Progreso - Sierra Papacal and follow the road until you arrive at your destination.

Museo Meteorito in Progreso

Alternatively (or additionally), you can visit the Museo Meteorito in Progreso. This museum offers a less scientific approach but is likely more engaging for children, featuring mechanized robotic dinosaurs and various show effects.​

The Museo Meteorito in Progreso provides an interactive journey through 14 billion years of Earth's history, emphasizing the Chicxulub meteorite impact that led to the extinction of the dinosaurs 66 million years ago. 

You can explore eight themed rooms, including exhibits on the Big Bang, meteorites, and life-size robotic dinosaurs. The museum utilizes advanced technology, such as augmented reality and digital tablets, allowing guests to design their own dinosaurs.